VOICE OF THE PEOPLE (letter).

`I trust only me to make good choices for me'

Chicago — I was disappointed to read that the Tribune has switched its position on the proposed smoking ban in Chicago ("For a Chicago smoking law," Editorial, Oct. 27).

First let me make clear that I am not a smoker (except for the occasional cigar) and that I prefer non-smoking sections of bars and restaurants or non-smoking bars and restaurants.

I have a stronger preference, however, for individual choice over government-controlled choice. I like the notion of voting with my wallet rather than having any government save me from myself.

I find the argument that workers should be protected to be somewhat compelling, though I find the proposed solution to be an unwarranted intrusion into my free choice. Moreover I fear what government will do next in the name of protecting us from our own decisions.

If the issue is to protect workers, why not require employers to take necessary steps to limit or reduce risk? This limited, focused governmental method has worked for years in the form of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Over the years, OSHA has dramatically reduced workplace injury and improved the quality of life for tens of millions of workers in formerly hazardous environments.

The difference is that OSHA uses rules that narrowly address specific risks. For instance, it requires the use of non-conductive extension ladders near power lines. It doesn't require that we ban electrical power.

Proper, specific limitations such as ventilation, air-quality monitoring equipment and maximum time limits in the environment will serve the same purpose and won't limit my individual choice to engage in a legal activity or decide where to work. Such regulations and others will bear a rational relationship to the harm sought to be avoided--and do so without broad restrictions.

The added cost of even modest rules will likely encourage business owners to adopt smoke-free environments.

There are now and always will be those who think they know what's best for all of us. That segment of the population is now focused on preventing property owners from allowing a legal activity on their premises and preventing smokers from publicly associating and sharing one of their legal habits.

At the end of the day, I trust only myself to make the best choice for me.

No well-intentioned government bureaucrat, passionate non-profit employee or crusading community activist is capable of dealing with the consequences, intended or otherwise, that I may suffer from their actions.

The freedom to make choices for oneself has to include the freedom to make wrong choices.